browsers bog down

Every so often, particularly after changing sites, the browser (happens both with IE and firefox) does not connect, waits and waits until the message comes that this site can not be connected. The internet is connected as seen in the taskbar and switching users readily connects with the desired site. Similarly closing the browser for a few minutes restores the ability to find the site, also restarting the computer achieves the same. Please help. What is going on? How to correct?
My laptop, using vista and receiving from the same wireless router, at the same time that this goes on, does not experience any problem. The task manager on the desktop does not show anything unusual and has plenty of memory and CPU capacity.

Try to use another DNS

How to do that? Sorry not obvious to me. Thanks!!

Thanks!! I assume it is safe to go that way

2leon said:

...My laptop, using vista and receiving from the same wireless router, at the same time that this goes on, does not experience any problem...

If both computers are set to the default DNS "obtain DNS server address automatically" then they are using the DNS server in your router (which may also be set to obtain automatically which means it uses the DNS provided by your ISP). In Windows 7, the DNS server can be set to override automatic by specifying the server address in the "adapter properties" section of the Network and Sharing Center (for IPV4). But if both computers have the same DNS setting the problem may be due to IE8. Try resetting IE8 using Tools/Internet Options/Advanced/Reset.

Thanks!!! Apparently this will cause loss of cookies and tool bars but all that can be eventually recreated as when I contact my bank or credit card company on line they would think is a new computer. Imagine is no big problem. Is this correct?

2leon said:

... Imagine is no big problem. Is this correct?

Correct. Removing cookies and add-ons does not make it a new computer. You just loose the add-ons that may be causing problems with IE8. The missing cookies will mean that some websites may require you to log on again with your username and passwords. Some (but not all) may reqiuire you to re-do your customizations also but many won't since they save them on their servers and use them when you log in.